While everyone was sleeping, last month our kitchen caught fire. We all got out safely, and although the house stinks and is chemically unbalanced (A nice way of saying that it all has to be professionally cleaned, lots of stuff was tossed, but insurance is paying for it all) we are all safe. I am so grateful that my family was not harmed and that we are all safe.

Life is precious. You never know what may happen, so Everyone have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Your story reads like someone who has a pain and uses Google to diagnose your illness. When you get to the bottom of the illnesses, (where they list he worse-case scenarios) you say, "Yup. That's what I got, schizophrenia..."

There could be a few things going on. Right now, we are in the middle of many planets in Retrograde, along with the Moon having lunar eclipses. Since everything is energy, this change in planetary energy is heavy and dragging all of us down. Have you ever heard a police officer say, Oh, it's a full moon and the crazies are out? Something as simple as a full moon does that, so you can imagine what planets in retrograde are doing to our energy. Mercury comes out of retrograde on the 18th, so things will soon start to lighten up!

It could also be that you are being psychically attacked. I'm not sure whether it is human or supernatural, but I would assume, first (so we don't go to the worse-case scenario, again) that someone is psychically attacking you. You need to cleanse your apartment and set a feeling that you want for each room-bedroom, peace, living room, joy, kitchen, happiness...whatever feeling that you want to have living there.

Then, search your friends, co-workers, neighbors, family, and feel where you think the attack is coming from. Who wants you to not succeed? Who is jealous of you and your life? Get into a meditation and ask Archangel Michael to help by surrounding you with a protection cloak, ask him to place a protection cloak around your apartment and also your car/bike. Then, ask him to stand in front of you to shield you from any incoming bad energy.

You can also call on Azna (Mother God) to protect you. I use Azna a lot when trying to keep my grandchildren safe from their psychopathic Dad. Your Higher Power (whatever you call him/her) and a boat load of angels are here just to protect you. Call on them. They are standing by waiting for us to just ask.

This is all on you. It is YOU who can't give them up. Your life revolves around them, and you are not living your life, instead your every thought is about them.....Now, don't get me wrong. I understand how you got to this point (Been there, done this) and I understand why you are so adamant to your routine, but you are doing everything you can do, except give them up.

NEVER contact them. I understand the need to "remind" them, but it won't do you any good and isn't this what you are trying to do? Make a better life for you and your family? Drop it, drop them, let it go. Every time that you think of them, you are giving away your energy, giving them what they want and you are putting yourself back into the loop of living their life, not yours.

Time to do some meditating and find out why this is so important for you to keep them in your life? Are you so used to having to deal with them, that you don't want to live or look at your own life?

Now, you may not be ready for that step, and if so, I get it-it is painful, but you need to do it eventually. In the meantime, try this. Start monitoring your own thoughts and train yourself to not think of them. Every time that you think of them, pull yourself away and immediately think of something that you would like to see in your life or somewhere you want to be and then MAKE yourself think of that. Literally hear yourself thinking of them, say, STOP and make yourself think of something pleasant. It is not easy, but it is the only way that you can train your mind. They say it takes 22 to 23 days to break a habit and learn a new way of doing something. Allow yourself permission to learn this, the time to do this and be kind to self while you establish your new life.

I am sending you lots of love and courage to you to use while you partake on this new journey.

Also, have you tried tapping? It is such a simple technique that works wonders. Head on over to thetappingsolution.com and check Nick Ortner. He has several free tappings to try, but it actually easy to do on your own. Youtube has several others who can show you how. It's a way to remove stuck energy from your body.

The place where I grew up started out small, but it grew around me until it was a "city." I didn't realize how all that energy was affecting me, until I moved to where I live now. It is a small town, about 4500 people and you have to cross a bridge to get into the town. When I finally reach the bridge, my entire body goes through an obvious transition, a sudden relaxation of the entire body!

Living in a small town has it's quirks, though. Everyone knows everyone or is related to everyone, so you mind what you say and do. Still, by everyone knowing everyone, it gives you a safe feeling of being at home.

In Psychology, they would tell you that you are going through some major stressors, (they actually have lists of stressors in life and have graded their impact) a physical move, going to school, trying to do and be your best, and still remain positive? I feel that you have got to be Wonder Woman to do all that and still feel sane!

Years ago I had a physical injury that was work related. The company did everything it HAD to do for my physical health, but corporations are large and in the end, you are working with PEOPLE-people who have feelings, personal ideas, and prejudices. I decided that since I had no support at work, that it was up to me. I started treating myself as I would like others to treat me-I was kind to myself, patient, and began practicing self love. Even though I was a single Mom of 2 teenagers, I decided to carve out some "Me" time. I stopped for coffee, read books, took baths and I made it through, I survived and I love myself even more because I did it on my own!

Bottom line, be kind to self. Do whatever you can do to make some part of your day special. Make some "ME" time, be gentle, relax whenever you can and know that you were given this time by your Higher Power to learn from it. Since it wants nothing else from you than for you to be happy, then your lesson is to be happy and you can only be happy if you love yourself. Make self a priority. Love yourself, because The Universe certainly does!

Sounds like you need to cut the cord between the two of you. When we meet people and have a connection with them, an invisible cord is drawn. It's an invisible energy cord. It will remain until you cut the cord.

Ask archangel Michael to help you cut the cord between you and this person. Visualize Michael drawing up his huge sword and severing the connection.

This is a great accomplishment that you are able to see people as who they really are and not as they appear to be. It is a step that many never achieve. I'm happy for you.....But, I read what you wrote and kept reading, hoping that at some point you would have realized that you had a choice in how your afternoon went. You had the choice to buy into the negative energy or to decide that you can change the energy for not only yourself but for others, too.

I find that when I'm in situations where I'm getting bad service that I immediately take a good look at myself, check out what kind of energy I'm sending out and take steps to improve it. For an example, I was at a coffeehouse this morning and I was getting terrible service. I immediately took my "energy temperature" and realized that I was not in the best spirits, hence the energy I was sending was coming back to me in the form of unhappy "I'm too busy for you," kind of feelings. I had the choice to change the atmosphere from negative to positive-which I did and immediately the service I got back was kindness and "how can I help you!"

In this case, you realized that the clerk was not being "real," and nothing stops an unreal person better than kindness. Had you put out your Empath positive energy, it would have driven the not real person crazy and created a positive atmosphere for everyone else-double whammies!

I'm not a witch, so I may be talking out my a@s, but you have to look at the history of witches along with their practices to get a bigger picture. Witches were sought, hunted, cast out, and even the Halloween version of a witch is that of an ugly, scary, "I'll eat your children for supper," kind of person. They have been used as scapegoats throughout history. If there was something that couldn't be explained, people said, "Witch," and that was that. There was no recourse. Women were torn from families....is it any wonder that witches practice silently, at night, in the dark? (well, maybe not to this extent, now...)

If you are thinking about studying religions, you have to go back and learn their origins. Some of the customs may seem weird, but after learning how it came about, will amaze you-such clever ideas. I love learning history, finding out how and why we are all different, yet the same. How in almost all major religions, there was a "flood," or how there used to be hundreds of books in the new testament, but after a big get-together of so-called religious leaders, they narrowed it down to just a few select ones, burning the rest. In the Hindu religion, cows are not the only animal that is sacred. They believe that all life is sacred, but we only hear about the cow....selective reporting?

Keep learning and asking questions. Sounds like you are on the right path!

What an extraordinarymessage! You must have had goosebumps after that encounter.

According to Denise Linn"s book, "Sign Dictionary," a squirrel can be a sign "of frugality and comfort through patience....telling you to make preparations for....leaner time...by stockpiling and storing" Pertaining to "stockpiling your energy or to creating a reserve of energy within yourself. Be prepared."

It's not meant to scare you, just out of love, be prepared for anything.

I still see you wrapped up tightly and your spirit is everywhere. How are you doing in the "self-love" department? Try meditating on this subject. Pull back your spirit into your body. Do you know how to this? Imagine that you have a big, fat, cord attached to the middle of your back. It is a long cord, falling freely from your body, down into the earth and finally landing in the core of the earth. I imagine that there is a hollow canyon and my cord stops and hangs over a cliff into the center of the earth.

Now, take in a deep breath and call back your energy from (name a person) As you release your breath, see the energy from that person entering the cord on your back, and follow the breath as it enters the earth and finally escapes into the center of the earth. Take in another breath and chose another person and call back your energy from that person. Follow the breath as it enters the earth....etc. Keep doing this until you can think of no one that you have not been energetically involved. Always end with a deep, cleansing breath and then relax.

Since you are feeling so frustrated (I can feel the discord and tension in you) I would also call back your energy from these feelings that you have of being frustrated. Think back to the time before when your life wasn't saved (or safe) and call back your energy from those times.

The more you do this, the more your body will return to the state in which is belongs-to you!

When I see you, I see a rose bud, petals tucked tightly together, waiting to flower. You have closed up, but it is time to loosen those petals and allow yourself to love again. Don't be afraid. If you weren't ready to love again, this wouldn't be frustrating you. Take some time and just sit and allow yourself "me" time (asDalyne just said)

Go to gratitude and thank Source for all that you have, I mean really thank it for all the little things that make your life so special. Take in a deep breath and thank Source for the light in your room, the wind blowing on your face, the pen you use to write with, the time that you have to be able to just sit and be grateful, and as you let the air leave your body, feel your love flowing from your head down to your toes.

The more you allow love to guide your life, the more your abilities will come back. Empaths are made for love and compassion. Follow your Empath life and be love.

Above, there is a link to the Empath Survival Program. Take the program, as it is a great starting point. Then, as you have questions, post them here and hopefully one of us will have an answer. We may all be Empaths, but no matter how old we are, we are still learning, too.

Plant the seeds. They are offerings from your higher power, delivered by ravens, who are the shamans of the Universe. Always pay attention to what ravens are saying.

Somewhere in your life you are starting new things, 6 to be exact. These are the seeds to your new beginnings.....by the way, they look like cherry seeds, so don't plant them where they will create shade on your vege garden. They can become quite tall, though they say to cut the tops off the trees each autumn so the branches don't become too tall to harvest the cherries.

Ok, for one, you are scattered and your energy is everywhere. Meditate and call back your energy into your body. (Didn't mean for that to sound mean, but I'm getting this feeling like you are wringing a towel, crying when the information is in front of you, but you don't see it because you are spending too much time wringing that towel!)

Once you are back in your body, you can relax and take a look at the signs. Yes, you are getting signs, but you are interpreting them as "I'm going to get signs," instead of "These are my signs." Signs can be interpreted literally, but rarely are they meant as literal. They are about feelings, energy, life....

Three is the trinity, "Mind, Body, Spirit" and it is a divine symbol.

Hawks are birds and birds flying mean freedom or wanting freedom or feeling s that you are being set free. Hawks also are powerful creatures, and they fly high to find their prey, so "viewing life from afar?" It is even more powerful that it is your totem.

Dogs are your assertive, aggressive self and since it ran away, are are wanting to be free of something?

Fight with husband. (I have no idea what you 2 fought about, but it is about the symbol, not the real fight, though it could literally be about the fight-it is your life, your symbol) You have an internal battle going on (you are both Empaths) with yourself. "I want to go this way," but "I should be careful and take it slowly...."

Fire means the life force in your body, the opening up of your spiritual energy between you and your high Power. You are truly afraid of opening up this line, but I feel everything is going to be just great. This is something that you are meant to do, to be.

What I'm getting when I put all your signs together is that you are ready to take your spiritual adventure to a new high, you are ready to fly, be set free from limitations. There is something that you really want to do (it doesn't mean that you know what that is consciously, but unconsciously you are dying to do it) I'm getting excited for you just by writing this. You are ready for something, so let yourself go. It is time! The entire Universe is behind you, just let go and fly!

It sounds like you have been through some very impossible situations and confusion seems in order.

The only advice I have is for you to relax and take some "me" time. Give yourself permission to do things that are just for yourself, light some candles and meditate, take a bubble bath, walk in nature, BREATHE! Be kind to self. Don't judge yourself so harshly.

Yes, you have some strange relationships to deal with and they probably won't be going away soon, but remind yourself that this is your life, so take care of you first. Love self because you deserve it! Ask the Universe (Allah, God-Whatever name you call your Higher Power) for help. Ask for protection from your Angels and EXPECT That they are with you always.

I'm sending you tons of love with the belief that life is gonna get easier because I have faith in the Universe's power!

I have been thrust into this ugly world since learning that my ex-son-in-law is a psychopath, so I will give you my take on this.

It can be difficult to distinguish between the two because they are much a like. They both only think of self, their wants and their needs and they both live to wreck havoc, lie, cheat and abuse those around them. They are both great manipulators-end result, to look good.

Narcissists only see themselves through others. They will create a situation (usually a negative feeling) and then watch your reaction. It pleases them when they see what they have created by looking at your face. They know that it was THEIR deeds that created your look, your fear, your sadness, etc. They need to be validated, they seek attention because it is their way of being, a NECESSARY function like "I need air to breathe," a Narcissist needs attention to live. When they no longer receive what they need, they rage and vent-not something anyone wants to live through. They have a conscience, so in order to do the evil they do, they will manipulate the situation so that they look good and you end up being the bad guy.

Psychopaths have no true feelings, believe themselves to be the smartest people on the planet (everyone else are pawns to be played with and used) Since psychopaths have no real identity, they learn from a young age to "fake" feelings, practice in front of mirrors expressions that come naturally to "normal" people. When the need comes, they can cry at a drop of a hat, pretend laughter and express almost any feeling-all from years of practice.

The are easily bored and invent games to stimulate excitement. Of course, people are the players in these games, pitting one against the other, pushing and prodding to see just how far they can go before they have reached their limit. They can express some feelings, like frustration, rage. Pity the person who fails to provide the psychopath the attention and admiration he is looking to receive.

Differences: The narcissist NEEDS to receive attention to feel good about themselves whereas a psychopath has no such need-they are perfect. A psychopath lives to be evil, always trying to one-up themselves whereas the narcissist is only evil when searching for and not getting the attention he needs.

I like what you came up with about the love. Yes, loving others is very important, but for Empaths, the challenge always becomes finding time and actually giving ourselves love. Empaths are hard wired to feel and we do this naturally,(you are right-feeling/love is our natural state) but it is important to remember that "me" needs love, too

Coming out of this cocoon that you have built, put some time in and explore what it is that you need. What is it that makes you happy, makes you cry, makes you feel? The more time you use to learn who and what you are, the better person you will be-especially a better person for yourself. It is time for some "ME" time. It's time to fly, you butterfly!

Yes, I believe that we (Empaths) all go through what you are going through, but of course, it was different because we are all unique. Mine took an academic angle, as I had taken a required humanities course at college on religion and it opened my eyes to how blind and gullible I had been. I have also gone through the, "But what if there is nothing else, no God, no angels, just this?" And I don't want to say it was easy or that I got over it quickly, but once I came out of that void, I see the world as bright, loving, exciting place with so many opportunities to spread love.

I think what helped me move out of the void was that I started talking to The Universe (Mother Earth, God, The creator-whatever name you call your higher power) and just expected an answer (Yes, I went through a stage of, "If you are who you say you are, you will show yourself to me!) and I did get answers and the more questions I asked, the closer I got to the truth. (my own truth-yours will be different as again, we are all unique)

Keep asking questions Sarah, because all questions are answered, though sometimes they may not come to you in a way you want them. When my 16-year daughter was learning about asking the Universe for answers, she yelled at me, saying "I don't want to have to figure out what that symbol, what the meaning to that message is. I want it written on the blackboard in plain English!" Ask a question and then listen to words that others speak, to songs on the radio, to the whisper of the wind, or simply, listen to your heart. You will get answers because the Universe is real and it is Love.

Next, be kind to self. As much as it is a relief to finally figure out that there is a name to what/who you are and that there are people out there like you, it can be overwhelming. Take it slow and remind yourself to love yourself. We Empaths get so caught up in helping others that we forget that we need loving, too!

Ah, we all are our own worst enemy! I struggle with NOT LOVING SELF all the time, too. Too many years of the "old school" conditioning, the "Never toot your own horn," "Sit, speak, like a LADY," "No man will want you if you are FAT," "Get your head out of the clouds, kid...." It is something that you (I, WE) need to be constantly aware of happening and monitor it. Be your own cheerleader.

Medical issues are spiritual issues (actually, most problems are spiritual issues) When we fill our life with an agenda of "More," (more jobs, more volunteer work, more soccer practices, more, more, more) we are hiding from life. Got a problem and you don't know how to solve it? Just put another job on your "to-do list" and you won't have the time to address it-took care of that! But, the problem is, it doesn't. It may be hidden but it never goes away. It festers within the body and appears again as a bodily problem. When you become ill, it is your body's way of saying, "Hey, take a look at me. I'm NOT happy."

Take a look at your ailment and discover where you are spiritually lacking. Louise Hay, a leader in the self-help movement explains that Fibromyalgia as an autoimmune disease, where the root cause seems to be: Not loving self.This idea is huge and complex. The simple version is: that we don't like how we look, how we act, etc. (that it is a self-hating proposition) But, the bigger version is this, By doing for others, putting others first, we are telling self that we are not as important as others. When making mistakes, we blame self, not others. Filling our days with projects and activities for others, we are telling self that others are more deserving of our time.

How do you heal self? Start with baby steps. Give yourself permission to accept self, to like self and finally to love self. 1. When passing a mirror, catch yourself first and say, I am beautiful. 2. When someone asks you to do something, say NO. Be kind, but be firm. 3. Allow yourself a "just me" day. Go to a spa and splurge on yourself or light some candles and take a private bath. No money or no time? Go in a quiet room and give yourself a few minutes and just breathe. Think of nothing else but yourself and breathe.

The more you put yourself first, the happier your body will begin to feel. Remember, we come to this earth alone and we leave it alone, so wouldn't it be fair to say that "self" should be your highest priority? The next time you waiver, tell yourself, It's all about ME! I LOVE ME!

I get what you are saying. Years ago, someone told me that I had a misplaced fear of crowds, that I needed to "get over it and face my fears." Shortly thereafter, I learned that I was actually "just" an Empath, and it was the PEOPLE in the crowds that were the ones with the fears, anxiety, trauma. Being who I am, an Empath, I was picking up and living their phobias.

I too need time to recharge my batteries. I watch my 4 grand children during the week, so by Friday afternoon, I'm ready for some "me" time. I love Saturdays, doing what I want, but by Sunday, I usually start feeling alone. I have learned this of myself-I enjoy time alone, but for about 1 1/2 days.

I don't live in your shoes, so I don't know if it is fear based that your counselor is talking about or just energy overload. If it is fear based, then yes, face your fears and just do it. But if it is your Empath feelings saying that every time you go there, you end up on energy overload, then listen to your body. Going to the mall is something I NEVER want to do-I'm not afraid to go, but I am afraid of all the energy that I end up picking up.

Bottom line-get to know yourself. Know your limits, what makes you happy, how much time you need to be with self to be happy, know the difference between fear "based on phobias" and "fear based on the knowledge that it will end in an energy surplus." Protect yourself from energy overload.

Have you taken the free empath training course on this site? It helps you to learn about shielding and how to protect your body from energy overload. It is a great help to your sanity.

Congratulations in finding out who you are. It is an eye-opener, isn't it!

As Sirah put it (and said it very well, indeed!) relax. Enjoy yourself. The Universe never asks for anything more from you than to be happy, so be happy, be excited, be radiant. It isn't like the Universe has a stop watch and is saying, "Ok, you know what you are, now get busy fixing the world!" You have all the time in the world to live and to learn, so give yourself permission to take it slowly and enjoy the journey.

Just being an Empath says that you feel other people's energy, so be sure to read and learn from Elise's survival guide. It is a way to experience energy, but on your terms. Your craziness stems from an overload of emotions and energies that you have not yet learned to avoid or deal with.

This world of "Empath" is vast and encompasses a broad range of studies. Each of us is different, so too are our abilities. Chisel away at it, take what you want and discard any that you are not ready to know or want to know. I'm for making life easier, so take some time and learn about your angels and guides. They are here to protect, educate, love and otherwise make your life flow better. Call on them-that's what they are here for-they are here for you!

Sending you lots of courage and love for your exciting new journey! -janett-

It could also just be a dream about something that you are living in the waking world. Is there some situation where you feel stifled, under attack, something choking the life out of you? This dream is probably your Higher Power pointing this out to you and you need to take some action. Stand up for yourself or take a stand. If it is a person, find a way to get away from him/her, but don't run. This action should be about standing up for yourself. Find some way to be you and don't allow others to beat you down.

Your dreams 95% of the time reflect something that you are feeling in your waking world. Take the emotions in the dream and plug it back into your waking world and see the fit. Then, take the "things" in the dream and interpret it from there. When done, put the 2 interpretations and combine them and see the result.

Living in an old house (symbol of physical self/old meaning comfortable, wise, empowered) New dog (symbol for faithfulness, loyalty protection, friendship)"put my hand out" (open hand symbol of open to life, honesty) Dog: Your wise self said, "He looks new, but he is actually someone I have known before, and he will betray me, but just in case he isn't, I will extend my friendship." Of course, your wise self was correct.

There is someone/something who just entered your life that looks new and refreshing, but your wise self says, Don't trust him. He is a chameleon and in the end you will get hurt.(Bite off the hand that feeds you...)

It sounds like you have a very wise base from which to build your life. Trust your instincts. They will usually be right.

I'm so glad you made it here! Empathy is a skill, and like all skills, it needs cultivating, refining and practice. Start small and build from there. My advice is to take the "Empath Survival Program" at the top of this page. It will help you to learn how to shield yourself from excess energy. (Probably the MOST important thing an Empath needs to know)

Also under the heading Empath Survival Program are several links to help Empaths. Some of the links are tests that may help you to discover abilities that you may not have known that you have. Do the tests, research and as questions come up, feel free to post any questions or ideas. People on this site are very knowledgeable and helpful.

Click on the link above, "Empath Survival Program" and you will find lots of interesting material including tests to see if are an Empath. Many people are "sensitive," not Empaths, and these tests will help determine that.

The problem with labeling someone an Empath is that each Empath can/do different things. What Empaths have in common, though is that we don't know what people are feeling, we ARE FEELING what they are feeling. It isn't something that we can just decide not to do, either. It just Is.....

Do the tests, and then as questions come up, feel free to post any questions or ideas. People on this site are very knowledgeable and helpful.

I'm so glad you made it here! This site has wonderful information with many people who just want to help. Don't be afraid to ask!

Empathy is a skill, and like all skills, it needs cultivating, refining and practice. Start small and build from there. My advice is to take the "Empath Survival Program" at the top of this page. It will help you to learn how to shield yourself from excess energy. (Probably the MOST important thing an Empath needs to know)

Also, be gentle with self. We all get overloaded with emotion and then lash out at the one person we can-self! That's not right. I remember years ago when VHS tapes came out. On the face of the VHS tape it said, "Be Kind. Rewind!" That's a good motto for Empaths-be kind to self. If you are feeling out of sorts, take a peek at what you have just lived. If it's not your energy, get rid of it. Rewind and only allow kind, gentle energy to be apart of your life.

So glad that you found this site. Everyone here has been where you are now, so feel free to ask any questions-someone will have an answer.

The first thing that I would do is to read and learn everything that I could on what it means to be an empath. You will discover that although we all live under the umbrella of Empath, each of us is different in our gifts. Next I would take the "Empath Survival Program" at the top of this page. It teaches you techniques that will help you block emotions of others, which is one of the reasons that Empaths are so prone to depression.

Now, why do your ex's come back again and again? One of our "gifts" is the ability to feel what others are feeling and in doing so, we can provide "empathy" which is a mental healing agent. We know what to say, how to comfort, and in doing so, we heal others. It is truly a gift, but like any good thing, if we don't learn how to control how much we are willing to give, our life can be sucked dry. In the end, there will be nothing left to give to yourself.

That is the basic trait of being an Empath. We feel people's emotions and because we are so empathic, we can heal them emotionally, too. It is built in to your being, kinda like breathing.

All my grandkids are also Empaths, though sometimes I think that they believe that I am out-to-lunch. When I have talked to them about being an Empath, they patronize me, but I can tell that I'm not getting through. Imagine my surprise when last week my 18-year old grandson texted me after attending a funeral of a classmate. "You are right. I am definitely an Empath and funerals and Empaths don't mix very well at all!" He had felt everyone's sadness and it was driving him crazy.

Why am I telling you this? Because now that you know what you are, you can take steps to prevent total burnout. At the top of this website page, there is a link to the Empath Survival Program. Read it and master your emotions before life becomes overwhelming. There is lots to learn, but shielding is a basic that all Empaths need to learn.

"ex" can mean anything, a situation at work, with family, with self, a project, with a friend, an ending of any sort, where it is over and you are left wondering how you gave yourself totally. You invested your time and energy, and it ended poorly. Empaths have a tendency to "give their all," (we don't know how to do anything regarding feelings, 1/2 way-it is how we seem to burn ourselves out)

This dream could be telling you that it is time for you to learn how to set some boundaries-know where your breaking point is and to not go over that line. It used the example of your "ex" because this is where you have probably lost most of your energy-the angels use what is most familiar with us to tell their story. This is a dream that I call, "Once upon a time," dream. Once upon a time you were in a relationship (physical, mental) where you gave your all and it ended poorly.

Your "happily ever after" is what you learn NOW-set boundaries, be conscious of relationships where you give totally and be watchful. Learn how to love life without selling your soul.

Intestines is what most of us call the "stomach." My take is that there was something/someone in your life (I would guess your "ex" and your relationship) that you couldn't stomach-couldn't stomach what he was doing to you-draining your energy, sucking the "life" out of you.

This dream is about your break-up. While with your ex, you were drained of all that you had to give, sympathy, patience, love, understanding, leaving you feeling empty, lonely, and with a body that is still grieving for what was. He wasn't there to help you when it was over-no one was-and you are looking back trying to figure out how this happened-how you gave away all of your empathy without knowing that you were doing that.

Take some "me" time to grieve, re-charge. Spend some time outdoors, breath in loving, healthy energy, and allow Mother Earth to help you heal. Meditate and ask for help from your angels, pray and give it to your Higher Power, and remember the person that you were before this happened, a loving, helpful, thoughtful person. Discover the new "You," a powerful, dynamic individual who God gave his most precious gift, empathy. Use it on yourself and grow.

Sending you lots of love for this journey you are about to embark on....

Welcome! It is remarkable when we finally find this site. I'm 64 and I didn't learn what an empath was until 3 years ago-knew that I was different, but didn't know anyone else was like me. It's exciting but daunting because after the realization wears off you are left with, what now?

This site has a lot of wonderful information from which to learn. I would start with the Empath Survival Program at the top of this web page, look over all the groups and join what interests you. That should get you started in the right direction. We Empaths are alike in many ways, but so different in others. Take your time and discover what your gift is and then fine-tune it by asking questions, practicing to make your gift stronger, and read, read, read. I have almost as many books about my gifts as I do novels, and that's saying a lot! I am an avid reader! And just keep doing it because as you learn, your focus changes. My new interest is Indigo/crystal children, because I can see it in my grandchildren. I never knew they existed until just a few months ago. It's an interesting subject.

Have you ever been psychically attacked? I believe that this is what was going on and you did a WONDERFUL job protecting yourself.

Everything is made up of energy and what you are thinking reflects out into the world, negatively or positively. There are some people who are masters at manipulating energy.

A psychic attack is just someone sending out negative energy, consciously or unconsciously, with the intention of causing harm emotionally, spiritually or physically. Unconsciously-someone is so mad at you that they are really thinking bad thoughts about you...Consciously-someone is sending you bad, negative thoughts trying to inflict fear and pain. We Empaths are very susceptible to psychic attacks and it can really affect us.

When I have been psychically attacked at night, I awaken frightened and it runs pretty much like what happened to you. If I am psychically attacked during the day, I suddenly begin to feel tired, I mean SO tired that I am drained. My muscles are dead, I can barely move and it takes me a while to discover what is happening to me.

You did the right thing by putting on your "God's cloak of white light" or "God's shield of white light." That protects you, though it is still a earth shaking experience. Not only does it make you feel scared (like the boogie man has entered the room) but it leaves you wondering how anyone could feel so threatened by you to out send such negative, frightening energy. Sometimes it is just best to recognize that there are people out there who are evil and let it go at that. Do not feed it more energy, because that is where it draws it's power.

HSP= Highly Sensitive Person. When most of us researched our "affliction," the first thing that we found was HSP. But, after further research, we realized that we are a degree higher, an Empath. In the world of Empath, there are many different traits encompassing it, all different and unique.

I totally agree with what Sirah says-do your own research, make it your own decision. For years people told me I was a psychic, but they were only partially right. Doing my own research, I found that I have many skills, all under the umbrella of Empath.

Find out what your uniqueness is and then hone your skills. It will be quite an adventure.

Sign up for the group on this site for indigos and read some of their posts. Go to the library and get one of Doreen virtue's books on indigo/crystal children. I learned a lot from her books. It does get a little tricky deciding if one is an indigo or a crystal or even a rainbow. You just have to follow your gut on where feel the most comfortable....or don't decide. You could just be a combination of one or all.As in all things spiritual, the only thing that counts is what and how you feel on a subject. People are not a "one-size-fits-all" hence, make your decision based on your feelings and not some test.Keep me posted and I'll try and help you. I'm certainly not an expert, but I have done tons of research on this subject.

Have you read anything about Indigo children? So many people are diagnosed with ADD or ADHD who may actually be an Indigo, Crystal, Star or a Rainbow child? According to Doreen Virtue, "Indigo children are often labeled ADD or ADHD....but these children aren't disordered-the world they're trying to fit into is!" They have high IQ's, are creative and are risk-takers. "Indigo children are young eccentrics who make their own rules and live by their hearts and wit."

We have a group here on the Empath site for Indigo/crystal/star/rainbow people. My 9-year old grandson was diagnosed as ADHD last year, when in actuality he is a Crystal, with remarkable psychic abilities. i.e. He can see what others are seeing/what they are thinking. He feels his consciousness leaving his body and entering the body of another...Yet, he has trouble in school paying attention and assimilating class topics....but give him a topic that he is interested in and he flies off the charts with interest and knowledge.

I would question any diagnose of ADD and ADHD. It seems to be a way for the "established community" to pigeonhole people that don't fit into their definition of "normal."

Research it. When I did, it was an eye-opening experience for me. I found that I have another granddaughter who is a Crystal and the last granddaughter is a Rainbow. I am indeed blessed!

It doesn't necessarily have to do with dark energies....depression is something you can talk about, but not actually know without having been there. I know a lot of the media has jumped to the conclusion that, "if he had been stronger," "he was being selfish" or that "if he had asked for help," ....but none of these things are factual.

Depression encompasses the whole of one's body/mind/spirit. It is not logical nor is it predictable. When a person becomes depressed he doesn't consciously try to withdraw from the outside world, but instead finds that just getting up everyday absorbs all of his/hers energy It isn't an objective disorder-he isn't even aware of anything or anyone outside of himself. No, he isn't being a snob or egotistical-it is all about energy. Every ounce of energy is being used just to maintain any semblance of life. A person becomes so tired and withdrawn that nothing can permeate his consciousness, leaving one with just his thoughts.

Again, depression is not a logical disorder nor is it the same for everyone. I spent a few months living "depression," and it is not a nice place to be. I felt so alone, yet I had family and friends around me who loved and supported me. Luckily I got help and life became joyful again.

I feel for you (oh, and of course I can FEEL you-being an Empath it is just the way it is....) I know you don't want to hear this, but the Universe doesn't give us anything that we can't handle. Yes, it may be VERY difficult, but draw on the support of your angels. Ask for guidance and help and then just listen. They will always answer.

In the mean time, I find when I get like this, that I have forgotten to cleanse myself. All this energy that we are bombarded with becomes stuck in our body. Try washing your hands often-when it becomes really bad I will wash my arms and face, and sometimes it is so bad, that the only things that will work is to take a shower.

Recognizing what energy is mine and what energy belongs to someone else can be difficult. How I figure this out is to simply ask myself, Do I have reason to be sad, depressed, angry (fill in the blank)? If I can find nothing that has happened to me that would be responsible for me feeling this way, I know it belongs to others.

I then take in some deep breaths and ground myself. One way to do this is to imagine that you have a cord running from the back of your body on down to the center of the earth. Take in a deep breath and call back your energy by imagining that your breath is a solid substance. This energy that you are calling back is negative, black energy and it is making you feel sad, depressed, angry. In your mind, fill a bottle with this energy and then imagine pouring this substance down your grounding cord, directly to the center of the earth. Keep doing this until the energy that you call back turns to white or clear. At this point, you should start to feel a little better.

Also, what helps is to call upon God's love and imagine yourself being protected by dropping a clear/white shroud over your entire body. When negative energy hits the shroud, you will be protected and the energy will bounce right off. When I awaken every day, I imagine that I pull off the old shroud and I put on a new, shiny one that will protect me throughout the day.

I hope that some of this will work relieve some of the pressure you are feeling. I am sending you love and protection.

This has been an interesting commentary, one that most of us have struggled with probably several times in our lifetime. I had a major "awakening" about 18 years ago that forced me to re-think everything and most especially my relationship with God and Religion. I could not find common ground in religion, so we parted and I focused my life around God.

A few weeks ago, I felt the need (given a push, nagged with signs-you know the feeling when the Universe wants you to do something!) to re-read the book, "The Shack," by Wm. Paul Young (for the 3rd time I might add) If you have not read it, it is about a man's search for answers to religion/God after his daughter is tragically taken from him. He leaves his home and goes into the mountains and finds a shack that is inhabited by the Father, Son and Holy Ghost (Spirit) The conversations that they have answer many of the questions you have put forth. In a nutshell, it says, "Religion is about having the right answers and some of their answers are right. But I am about the process that takes you to the 'living answer' and once you get to him, he will change you from the inside."

In this change, most of us cannot justify all the rules and judgments that we are told were made by God, when in fact are man-made. "Religion must use law to empower itself and control the people who they need in order to survive."

Read it. Even going through it today to find these passages, has again given me lots to think about. Good luck on your journey.

Don't let it overwhelm you.....In fact, don't think about it at all. Just do what you "feel" good about doing. Life was not meant to be task-If I do this, then I have to do that-Life was meant to be lived in joy, so enjoy it! Don't stress trying to figure out being an empath and don't push yourself to do-just BE, be yourself. The Universe will bring you information and skills necessary when you are ready.

You are your "best" when you are being "YOU." Love yourself, love your neighbor, and LOVE LIFE!

This is a huge awakening. Congratulations! I believe that most of us have awaken this way-suddenly. I searched for years trying to fit who I am/what I do into a mold and it wasn't until I found this site that I had a name and learned that there were others out there like me.

I agree about Man's idea of God/Jesus/Religion. As in many things, man has taken something beautiful and wonderful and twisted it to fit his/hers needs and then tried to force it on the masses. We Empaths have been given a gift to help "awaken" and "lighten" up the world.

Empaths are Lightworkers. Because we are different, hence our gifts are different, too. I can, but have no desire to heal physically, but I am still a healer. I heal with words. I heal with ideas. I heal because I am able to see and cut through the bullsh@t of man's web of lies and deceit. This helps me to pave a way for others to learn.

Discovering our gifts can be fun, still putting them to use to the benefit others, can be a challenge. My suggestion is to remember: If it is fun, then go for it. Don't try and do any of this logically. If you are a healer, don't jump in and re-route your life to fit what others think you should do. Don't try and pigeonhole your gifts into "Man's" mold. Let your Higher Power guide you. Make meditation and prayer your friend and follow your own instincts (which are the Universe's way of talking and nudging us in the right direction)

This is a wonderful transition you have made. I am sending you lots of love and help (if you want it, just ask) for this journey.

I love this. This happened to me, though mine was much more clinical....in my day, no one knew about energy, mind healing or even about Empaths! When my daughter was 8, she became very depressed. I sought out a therapist for her and ended up being helped. After that, my daughter began to blossom.

I never realized that what I could do had a name until about 2 years ago. Now I know my daughters are Empaths, 2 of my grandchildren are Indigos and 2 are Crystal children. It has been a journey to find out how to nurture these types of children-everyone has written, spoken about who Indigos and Crystal are, but little information about how to help them in school, in life.

You should check into Crystal children. My gut is telling me that your son is a Crystal-not sure why, but I have learned to trust my gut. Doreen Virtue has several books dedicated to Crystal and Indigo children and there is a forum on this site about special children.